Breakfast links: Tourism spending hasn’t reached pre-pandemic levels
Image by Phillip Cohen licensed under Creative Commons.
In 2021, DC tourists spent 35% less than in 2019
New data shows that despite DC having more tourists than expected for 2021, their spending did not reach pre-pandemic levels. Possible reasons could be that people are still recovering from financial strains caused by Covid and advertisements have attracted tourists who live within 4 hours of DC, encouraging more day trips instead of extended stays. (Colleen Grablick / DCist)
Arlington parks rank 3rd in the country
After being stuck at No. 4 for several years, Arlington County’s park system has come in third on the Trust for Public Land’s Parkscore index. While the county received high marks for equity factors such as access to park space for people of color, the survey pointed out that white residents still have more total nearby parks than people of color and lower-income residents. (ARLnow)
Badly-needed bike lanes are finally coming to UMD’s campus in College Park
As students push for better bike infrastructure, the University of Maryland is funding the construction of a bike lane running alongside the Purple Line on Campus Drive to Rossborough Lane. A plan for future bike lanes is in the works. (Olivia Nicholson / The Diamondback)
Downtown Silver Spring Master Plan receives preliminary approval
The Montgomery County Council has come to an agreement after having several working sessions. The plan seeks to spark development, address climate change, and improve local transportation in downtown Silver Spring and some surrounding areas. It should be formally approved in a few weeks. (Steve Bohnel / Bethesda Beat)
Black churches are closing in urban communities
Black churches in urban communities are closing across the country. While there are many reasons for this, the gentrification of low-income communities and the displacement of Black residents are major factors. In DC, which has seen a 19% loss of Black residents since 2000, church leaders are trying to keep congregations through initiatives like the Black Equity Through Homeownership Program. (Derek Major / Black Enterprise)
DC offices struggle to stay occupied
The pandemic has created uncertainty about the future of office work. And with the rise in telework, DC is struggling to fill its office spaces. As a result, the District is considering policies that will create a vibrant mixed-use downtown with more arts, culture, and educational amenities, moving away from the traditional “office-only downtown model.” (Karina Elwood / Post. Tip: Chester B.)
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